Barclays boost for elderly who want to bank online

BARCLAYS has launched an extra large talking card reader to help older and vulnerable customers use online banking.

Money Mail has long called for improvement as customers complain that the fiddly card readers make it tricky to log on to online accounts. Now Barclays has created a card reader that’s much easier to use. The buttons are bigger to help those who struggle with dexterity or eyesight to tap in their PIN.

There’s an extra-large screen and a loudspeaker reads out the authentication codes you need to make online payments. People who want privacy while banking online can use headphones with the device.

Customers can order a reader from their local branch or by calling 0345 600 2323. Barclays says it is also launching a new debit card with a larger security code on the back for those with sight problems.

More than five million people in the UK have sight and dexterity issues, according to disability charity Papworth Trust.

Barclays already offers debit cards with high-contrast colours, so the numbers are easier to read. And since the start of this year the bank has allowed customers to block online payments and set cash withdrawal limits to protect themselves against fraud.

Ashok Vaswani, chief executive of Barclays UK, says: ‘Often it’s when you think about how to meet specific needs that you find solutions that help the widest range of people and customers.’